“Speeding up patients’ access to their first surgical assessments has been a priority for this Government,” says Dr Coleman.

“At the same time, we have also increased the number of patients receiving their first surgical assessment compared to 10 years ago.

“Last year a record 30,076 Waikato patients received their first surgical specialist assessment, compared to 25,002 in 2009.

That’s an increase of 20 per cent.

Mark Spittal

Waikato and Thames hospitals group manager Mark Spittal said there was only one patient at Waikato Hospital who had not received a first specialist appointment within the four month period at the end of March which excludes those who, for personal reasons, had rescheduled their appointments who did not turn up for their appointment.

“In 2005 there were 33,000 patients nationwide waiting over six months for either a specialist assessment or surgery. Today there are just 35,” said Dr Coleman.

“We have set clear health targets which have helped to reduce the wait for the first surgical assessment as well as increase the volume being seen.

“These results are a credit to Waikato’s health professionals and helped by the Government’s investment of around $460 million in new money into the health budget each year.”

Mr Spittal paid tribute to the teams of people – from booking clerks, to nurses, doctors, Allied Health staff and managers – for the huge effort involved in Waikato’s results.

Facebook feed

Taumarunui was Waikato's first public meeting where around 100 people of the community gathered with some sharing their experiences, views and ideas to help guide the new direction of our mental health and addiction services. Find out more: ... Read moreSee less